The Disadvantages of Reflective Insulation

Insufficient Weatherproofing

• Reflective insulation serves a very specific purpose. The foil surface reflects radiant heat, especially in the summer time, drawing the heat away from the interior of the home. This makes reflective insulation a potentially useful summer solution, but the same cannot be said of winter. Since reflective insulation has a low R-value and does not prevent convective heat transfer very effectively, it will not keep warm air inside during cold periods. R-value measures convective heat transfer in insulation materials.

Expense

• Reflective insulation works best as a supplementary insulation material, and not as a standalone insulation material. In other words, you must install it alongside other insulation materials, like cellulose or fiberglass, for optimal insulation benefit, and that can get expensive. But since other insulation materials already contain a higher R-value, their installation often negates the need for additional reflective insulation. At best, reflective insulation can provide an additional layer of heat resistance.

Maintenance

• Reflective insulation is one of the more high-maintenance forms of insulation on the market. Since it requires a perfectly reflective surface to do its job, it must remain free from dust, dirt and debris. This can prove difficult for a material maintained inside of a wall board or roof rafter. Additionally, it requires an enclosed air space for optimum performance. Other insulation materials can function without these types of demands.

Safety Concerns

• Many reflective insulation materials have the ability to conduct electricity. If these materials come into contact with any bare electrical wiring in your home, the reaction may result in fire. Reflective insulation should only be installed by a trained professional to ensure that it maintains the utmost effectiveness and remains free from hazard.